Consider the following statements regarding the Freedom of Religion guaranteed under the Indian Constitution:

1. The State can restrict religious freedom only on the ground of public order.
2. In the context of constitutional provisions, the term 'Hindus' includes Sikhs, Buddhists, and Jains.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Question

Consider the following statements regarding the Freedom of Religion guaranteed under the Indian Constitution:

1. The State can restrict religious freedom only on the ground of public order.
2. In the context of constitutional provisions, the term 'Hindus' includes Sikhs, Buddhists, and Jains.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Accepted Answer

Statement 1 is incorrect: Under Article 25 of the Constitution, the freedom of religion is subject to public order, morality, and health, not just public order alone. Statement 2 is correct: Explanation II of Article 25 explicitly mentions that the reference to 'Hindus' shall be construed as including a reference to persons professing the Sikh, Jaina, or Buddhist religion.

Answer

Answer